Rory McIlroy’s recent comments on the divide in golf have been slammed by popular golf analyst Johnson Wagner.
The world number three called for PGA Tour players opposed to LIV Golf stars returning to events to ‘get over it’ earlier this week.
GettyMcIlroy’s comments have angered a popular golf pundit[/caption]
NBC GolfJohnson Wagner admitted McIlroy is ‘angering me right now’[/caption]
McIlroy, who was once LIV Golf’s fiercest critic, made the claim whilst speaking to reporters ahead of the Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines.
Talks are ongoing between the two tours to heal the wounds between them and end the split in the sport.
Leading LIV players will be invited to play at this year’s Open in July, although it is a move which could anger some Tour stars.
McIlroy addressed the ongoing dispute during his press conference on Wednesday, explaining: “Whether you stayed on the PGA Tour or left, we have all benefited from this.
“I’ve been on the record saying this a lot. We’re playing for a 20 million dollar prize fund this week [and] that would have never happened if LIV hadn’t come around.
“I think everyone’s just got to get over it and we all have to say ‘okay, this is the starting point and we move forward’. We don’t look to the past.
“Whatever’s happened has happened. How we all come back together and move forward, that’s the best thing for everyone.”
Former PGA Tour pro Wagner has hit back at the Northern Irishman’s remarks, though.
Appearing on Golf Central’s pre-tournament show, Wagner said: “The fact that he’s saying that we’ve all benefited, he’s just seeing things from a finite perspective, from his perspective.
“You know who hasn’t benefited since all these things have gone on? The sponsors, who pay all the bills. TV is down, everything is down yet they are being asked to pay more money.
NBC GolfWagner hit back at McIlroy’s remarks ahead of the Genesis Invitational[/caption]
“So, good for you, I’m glad you’re making more money than you were in 2019, which was a ton of money.
“Also, he’s telling everyone to get over it. Rory has said a lot of things over the past couple of seasons that have rubbed a lot of players the wrong way.
“Now, he wants everyone to get over it, he’s pushing for a small world tour. He’s trying to get his way in every way.
“I’m a huge fan of Rory, but he’s angering me right now.”
Wagner was a three-time winner on the PGA Tour as a player before moving into punditry.
He has since established himself as a popular commentator with fans on the Golf Channel.
Meanwhile, McIlroy has already been in action at the Genesis Invitational this weekend.
The four-time Major winner is fourth and three shots adrift of leader Davis Thompson, with world no.1 Scottie Scheffler also in the mix.
You can listen to live coverage on talkSPORT 2.
